Genesis 43

KJ3 Literal Translation — Chapter 43 of 50

1 And the famine was severe in the land.

2 And it happened, when they had finished eating the grain which they had brought from Egypt, their father said to them, Go back; buy a little food for us.

3 And Judah spoke to him, saying, The man fiercely protested, saying to us, You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.

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Chapter Summary

1 Jacob resists sending Benjamin. 15 Joseph entertains his brothers. 31 He makes them a feast.

Key Hebrew Words

מִנְחָה present, gift H4503 · TWOT 1214a
עָרַב be surety H6148 · TWOT 1686
רַחֲמִים compassion, mercy H7356 · TWOT 2146b
שָׁלוֹם peace, welfare H7965 · TWOT 2401a
כֶּ֫סֶף silver H3701 · TWOT 1015a
לֶ֫חֶם bread, meal H3899 · TWOT 1105a

People & Context

Joseph

Egyptian governor who hosts his brothers, is deeply moved at the sight of Benjamin, and weeps privately

Judah

Brother who pledges himself as surety for Benjamin and persuades Israel to let him go

Jacob (Israel)

Father who reluctantly sends Benjamin with a gift and prays God Almighty grant them mercy

Benjamin

Youngest son brought to Egypt; Joseph honors him with a fivefold portion

Simeon

Brother released from custody and restored to his brothers

Timeline

Famine Continues, Jacob Consents to Benjamin's Journey

The famine remains severe. When they run out of the grain from Egypt, Jacob tells his sons to go buy more food. Judah reminds him of the man's (Joseph's) stern warning not to see his face without Benjamin. Jacob questions why they told the man they had another brother. Judah becomes surety for Benjamin, promising to bear the blame forever if he doesn't bring him back, and urging immediate action to avoid starvation.

Genesis 43:1-10
Jacob Prepares a Present

Israel (Jacob) agrees to send Benjamin, instructing his sons to take a present of balm, honey, spices, myrrh, nuts, and almonds to the man, double silver (including the returned silver), and to rely on God Almighty for mercy.

Genesis 43:11-14
Brothers Return to Joseph

The brothers take the gifts, double silver, and Benjamin, and go down to Egypt to stand before Joseph.

Genesis 43:15

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